Former NBA star Rick Fox announced Monday that he will seek a seat in the legislature of The Bahamas, signaling a major shift from sports and entertainment to politics. Fox made the declaration in a post on his social-media account, saying he wants to respond to what he calls the urgent demands of his fellow Bahamians.
A New Path: From Courts to Constituency
In his announcement, Fox wrote, “You’ve shared that you want more transparency, a modern economy that prioritizes affordability and security, and a country where opportunity is our reality, not just a promise.” He added that he will be “a candidate in the next general election,” aiming to help deliver the change many Bahamians have called for.
Born in Toronto to a Canadian mother and a Bahamian father, Fox spent parts of his childhood in The Bahamas. He played 14 seasons in the National Basketball Association, primarily with the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics, winning three NBA championships. Since retiring, he has pursued acting and business projects, and in 2015 briefly co-founded the esports team Echo Fox.
Fox’s entry into politics comes at a critical time for The Bahamas. The nation continues to wrestle with the lingering effects of the devastating 2019 Hurricane Dorian and widespread concerns over illegal immigration, economic instability, and corruption.
In his statement, Fox stressed that his candidacy was not about party politics, but about national unity and accountability. “This is bigger than party politics. This is the Bahamas versus the world. Imagine a nation where every Bahamian feels secure, safe, empowered, and proud,” he wrote.
He has not yet revealed which of the 39 legislative constituencies he will contest. The date of the next general election is determined by the office of the Philip Davis, Prime Minister of The Bahamas.
For many Bahamians, Fox represents a rare blend of local heritage and global experience. Raised partly in the islands, he has maintained ties to the community over decades, even as his professional life took him abroad. Observers suggest his celebrity status could draw attention to issues often overshadowed.
Still, critics may question whether a career built in sports and entertainment translates to political savvy and governance skill. Nevertheless, Fox is making a bold statement: he believes change is overdue, and he seems determined to be part of it.